The rising temperatures of our planet present escalating threats to both life and ecosystems. Social and economic disparities, both among and within nations, continue to be alarmingly persistent. The term “sustainability” has emerged as a potential remedy for these challenges: by transitioning our systems toward greater sustainability, we can lower carbon footprints and resource consumption, while also creating a more equitable society for everyone.
But what does “sustainability” truly entail, and what steps are being taken to achieve it?
Understanding Sustainability
In 1987, the United Nations Brundtland Commission described sustainability as “fulfilling the needs of the present without jeopardizing the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” This definition remains highly relevant today.
Beatrice Olivastri, the CEO of Friends of the Earth Canada, emphasizes, “Sustainability encompasses the notion that we should not undermine the capacity of future generations to enjoy a quality of life comparable to ours.” This concept demands a pledge to intergenerational fairness.
Though the prevalence of the term “sustainability” is relatively modern, its underlying principles are deeply rooted: Indigenous cultures have long embraced the philosophy of caring for our planet with a focus on ensuring the well-being of the next seven generations.
Environmental Sustainability
The focus of environmental sustainability lies in the protection and conservation of natural resources—such as clean air, water, forests, and biodiversity—ensuring they remain viable for generations ahead.
Discussions surrounding the transition to renewable energy and minimizing waste typically center on this aspect of sustainability.
Olivastri regards the health of ecosystems as vital, positing that without such environments, the sustainability of human societies and economies will falter.
The Interplay of Environment and Economy
Economic sustainability entails fostering economic development while ensuring the responsible and efficient use of resources. The manner in which we manage our resource flows significantly affects the environment.
Current economic models are primarily linear, following a “take-make-dispose” approach that leads to a straightforward progression from production to waste.
In some areas, a more circular approach is being adopted, emphasizing recycling until products can no longer be used. For instance, cardboard may be recycled into new items up to 20 times before its fibers degrade.
Nonetheless, recycling rates are often inadequate: a 2019 study revealed that only 9% of Canada’s yearly 3.3 million tonnes of disposed plastic is effectively recycled.
A real shift towards sustainability would involve adopting a circular economy, which seeks to keep products and resources in use while preserving their value, rather than merely recycling towards disposal.
Presently, only 7.2% of the global economy operates on circular principles, indicating the significant changes still required to achieve this model.
Social Sustainability
Though environmental concerns often dominate discussions of sustainability, the social aspect is just as essential. Social sustainability focuses on fostering a society where everyone can fulfill their social, cultural, and spiritual needs while enjoying a high quality of life.
This aspect emphasizes the need for equitable transitions toward greener practices. For example, farmers moving away from industrial food systems should be supported with training or alternate pathways to meaningful employment.
Environmental Justice
A vital aspect of social sustainability is environmental justice, which addresses how marginalized communities frequently suffer the most from climate change and pollution. The Canadian government is formulating a strategy to enhance environmental justice for low-income, racialized, and Indigenous populations who are disproportionately affected by industrial activities and climate consequences.
Olivastri refers to a recent instance involving a plastic plant in Southwestern Ontario that was mandated to shut down due to harmful emissions affecting the health of the local Aamjiwnaang First Nation.
Steps Towards a Sustainable Future
While individual contributions to sustainability are significant, governments and corporations possess considerable influence over these issues.
Government Initiatives
In 2015, Canada committed to meeting the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) established by the United Nations, which are slated for achievement by 2030 and encompass various aspects of environmental, economic, and social sustainability, including promoting gender equity and safeguarding biodiversity.
While Canada is progressing on some of these goals, much more remains to be done, especially in addressing ingrained inequalities faced by Indigenous and marginalized communities, single working-age individuals, single-parent families led by women, and individuals with disabilities. Rising emissions from oil and gas sectors are also hindering Canada’s commitments to mitigate climate change.
Corporate Responsibility
A recent study revealed that from 2016 to 2022, a mere 57 corporate and state-owned companies contributed to 80% of global carbon dioxide emissions.
Thus, corporations play a crucial role in the sustainability narrative. Many spend large amounts lobbying governments to maintain environmentally detrimental practices; a report indicated that oil and gas lobbyists conducted nearly five meetings daily with Canadian officials in 2023.
This situation has made Olivastri particularly concerned about the extent to which corporate interests have “captured” sustainability initiatives.
Empowering Individuals
Though systemic transformations are crucial, it is encouraging to recognize that individuals also retain significant power to effect change. Olivastri encourages people to actively participate in community-based sustainability efforts.
“Whether it involves addressing plastic waste or opposing a new polluting facility, these moments are opportunities for us to engage,” she observes.
Identifying sustainability claims from corporations can be challenging, as many use “greenwashing” tactics to present their products as more eco-friendly than they truly are.
If you encounter ambiguous labels claiming environmental benefits, Olivastri recommends a skeptical inquiry. “Always consider the basis of these claims,” she advises. “Can they substantiate this assertion? Can I?”
Olivastri encourages viewing oneself as a proactive citizen—someone with rights and responsibilities towards environmental welfare—rather than just a passive consumer.
While striving for personal sustainability is important, we must not overlook the systemic changes needed from governments and corporations. If you’re in a position to advocate or vote, these avenues are vital for holding those in power accountable.
This article was originally published in the April 2025 issue of up7op magazine.
